Senior Research Scientist - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to lead research in renewable energy technologies within our R&D team. You will design, manage, and execute experimental projects focused on solar energy conversion, energy storage, or grid integration.

The role requires a Ph.D. and at least 5 years of post‑doctoral or industry experience in renewable energy, with strong data analysis, problem-solving, and collaboration skills to drive sustainable energy innovations.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering or related field with renewable energy focus.
• Minimum of 5 years post‑doctoral or industry research experience in renewable energy technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Expertise in photovoltaics, electrochemistry, or materials for energy storage.

Responsibilities

• Lead research efforts in developing and optimizing novel renewable energy technologies.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments related to solar cells, battery systems, or other clean energy solutions.
• Investigate material properties, device performance, and system efficiency for energy applications.
• Collaborate with engineers and cross‑functional teams to scale up promising technologies.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements and market trends in the renewable energy sector.
• Author technical reports, patents, and publications to disseminate research findings.

Skills

Leadership

Experiment design

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Physics / Chemistry / Materials Science / Electrical Engineering with renewable energy focus

Tools

PV systems

Electrochemistry

Materials characterization

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative Senior Research Scientist to lead critical research in Renewable Energy technologies within their dynamic R&D department in Upington . This role is pivotal in advancing the development of next-generation energy solutions, focusing on areas such as solar energy conversion, energy storage, or grid integration. You will conduct independent research, design and manage experimental projects, and collaborate with a team of engineers and scientists to bring sustainable energy innovations to fruition. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated researcher to contribute significantly to the global transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research efforts in developing and optimizing novel renewable energy technologies.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments related to solar cells, battery systems, or other clean energy solutions.
• Investigate material properties, device performance, and system efficiency for energy applications.
• Collaborate with engineers and cross-functional teams to scale up promising technologies.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements and market trends in the renewable energy sector.
• Author technical reports, patents, and publications to disseminate research findings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on renewable energy .
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in renewable energy technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Expertise in areas such as photovoltaics, electrochemistry, or materials for energy storage.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for sustainable technology development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities for collaboration and reporting.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-driven bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous support for professional development, including conferences and training.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities in Upington focused on energy solutions.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment committed to advancing renewable energy .